In outpatient clinics, it is common to encounter women around 48 years old holding HPV-positive reports and anxiously asking, "Doctor, can I still test negative at this age? Will I develop cervical cancer soon?" In fact, there is no need to panic—HPV positivity at 48 can indeed turn negative, and most people can achieve "positive to negative" conversion within 1-2 years through scientific management.

First, let me put everyone's mind at ease: HPV infection is like a "cold" for the cervix, and it is not absolutely related to age. The key factors are immunity and intervention methods. Data shows that the HPV infection rate among women aged 45-50 is about 18%, but over 80% of these infections are temporary. As long as the immune system is functioning properly, the virus will be cleared by the body on its own and will not progress to precancerous lesions.

First thing: Start with "precision screening" instead of blindly worrying.

Upon receiving a positive HPV report, do not rush to take medication. The first step is to undergo TCT and HPV genotyping tests. If it is a high-risk type (such as 16 or 18) but the TCT result is normal, it indicates a simple infection with a high probability of turning negative. If the TCT suggests "ASC-US" or more severe findings, further colposcopy is required to rule out cervical lesions.

Here is a reminder for everyone: At the age of 48, ovarian function begins to decline, estrogen levels decrease, and cervical resistance may become slightly weaker. However, this does not affect the process of turning negative. It simply requires more regular monitoring—for a simple infection, follow-up examinations should be conducted every 6 to 12 months. Two consecutive negative results indicate safety.

The second thing: Activate immunity, which is the "core weapon" for turning negative.

There is no specific medication for HPV, and clearing the virus relies entirely on the body's own immunity. A 48-year-old woman can focus on three key aspects:

1. Diet: Consume foods rich in protein (eggs, fish, soy products) and vitamin C (oranges, broccoli). Drink a cup of yogurt daily to supplement probiotics, which helps regulate immunity.

2. Exercise: Engage in moderate activities such as brisk walking or square dancing three times a week, for 30 minutes each session, which can both improve physical fitness and alleviate anxiety.

3. Sleep: Ensure 7 hours of sleep daily. Staying up late directly suppresses the activity of immune cells, giving viruses an opportunity to invade.

Third thing: Avoid three "negative conversion misconceptions" Many people fail to convert to negative because they fall into these pitfalls:

Misconception 1: Relying on "folk remedies" or health supplements. In fact, no health supplement can directly clear HPV at present, and spending money may delay monitoring.

Misconception 2 Excessive vaginal cleaning and frequent use of wash solutions can disrupt the balance of vaginal flora thereby reducing cervical resistance

Misconception 3: Stopping sexual activity upon testing positive. In fact, consistently using condoms throughout intercourse can effectively prevent cross-infection, making complete abstinence unnecessary.